$100 Million for New Tourism Projects in Regional NSW

Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra and South Coast Gareth Ward MP has today announced that $100 million is available for new regional tourism projects including large scale projects across our region with round two of the Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund now open.

Mr Ward said that up to $50 million will be available for regionally iconic tourism activation projects that will cost over $5 million.

“This time it’s about providing bigger grants to those signature projects that will give us the chance to further increase our reputation as a holiday and tourism hot spot and fantastic place to live,” he said.

“I encourage you to put forward your big picture projects now that will help to attract more tourists, create jobs, and showcase the impressive beaches, coastline and natural beauty our region has to offer,” Mr Ward said.

The NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said that the remaining $50 million will be available for applicants who submitted strong applications but were unsuccessful at the Expression of Interest stage in round one.

“Our regional communities are brimming with great ideas and opportunities, and unfortunately the first time around we just couldn’t fund them all because of the high number of strong applications,” he said.

“We want to reassure those who missed out the first time - specifically during the Expression of Interest phase – If you have a strong, viable case we’re giving you another chance to get your project funded,” Mr Barilaro said.

The NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said the state contains some of Australia’s most desirable natural tourist attractions.

“This funding is designed to get people to enjoy the wonderful scenery and experience the natural beauty of NSW,” Ms Upton said.

“We want to grow tourism and recreational opportunities so that our amazing environmental attractions are a source of relaxation and enjoyment,” she said.

The NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said $142 million has already been committed to 32 projects from round one right across the state.

“Tourism Projects are currently underway from round one and are set to be huge drawcards for visitors to our rural and regional areas, filling our hotels, cafes, restaurants and boutiques, putting more tourist dollars in the pockets of local businesspeople,” Mr Marshall said.

“We’re absolutely committed to supporting the growth of our State’s tourism sector so that every corner of NSW reaps the benefits,” he said.

The Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to the delivery of infrastructure projects which improve the productivity and competitiveness of the state under Restart NSW.

Applications for the fund will be open until Friday 21st September 2018.